BAUANG, La Union. The Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Office I in collaboration with the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center I and Federated Rural Improvement Club of Region I spearheaded the conduct of the 4th Regional RIC Congress with Training on Agri-Business Development. The activity was held at Marand Resort & Spa in Bauang, La Union last October 11-13, 2017.
The Rural Improvement Club (RIC) is a non-government women organization technically assisted by the Agricultural Technician of a local government unit. The club aims to bring about effective involvement and participation of rural women in home and community project through collective efforts.
The 3-day activity entailed series of activities over agri-business development while sharing experiences with other chain actors and stakeholders in the region.
Hon. Veronica Bernardo, Consultant-Barangay Affairs of La Union, delivered the message of Hon. Vini Nola A. Ortega, Congresswoman-ABONO Partylist, to the participants during the congress. She was also joined by Dr. Rogelio C. Evangelista, ATI-RTC I Center Director, and Mr. Justin F. Casuga, Executive Assistant II-Governor’s Office of La Union, in the cutting of ribbon for the opening of Mini Trade Fair. The trade fair showcased several products and services of the different RIC clubs in the region.
Meanwhile, to strengthen the RIC clubs and capacitate them to become more competitive on their goals for agricultural development, Ms. Rosalia G. Pastor, DA-APCO for Ilocos Norte expounded on Leadership and Team building activities among the members and coordinators of each club in the region. Likewise, edible gardening and health and wellness were discussed by Ms. Rosemarie Glenn-a farm owner and organic agriculture advocate from Pangasinan. Science Research Specialist Mr. Hero Galamgam of DOST Region I explained the importance of food safety in everyday living. Also, Packaging, Labeling, and Registration of Products were emphasized by Dr. Cynthia Rivera, Senior Trade and Industry Specialist, DTI Region I.
One of the highlights of the activity is the Governor’s Night and Coronation of Ginang Regional RIC 2017. This was in preparation for the search for Ginang RIC Pilipinas 2017 to be held in Palawan later this year. Sharing of stories of successful RICs was also given emphasis during the night. This served as an avenue for the members of the clubs in the region to showcase their best practices for emulation.
The activity was participated by 167 members and coordinators from the different RIC clubs in the region. The congress is conducted every after two years since its inception in 2014. This is to strengthen linkages among members and coordinators and reinforce their commitment and sense of responsibility to their respective clubs/organizations.